Fear is something we all experience. It is an innate human response embedded deeply within us, meant to protect us from harm and lead us out of dangerous situations. But, fear can often go too far. It can take ahold of our souls and force us into living a life in which we are not […]

We all fear pain. Pain comes in many forms and sometimes threatens to overwhelm our emotions and/or our bodies. Sometimes we mask it; and find ways to make ourselves numb so that we can no longer feel its effects. But this does nothing more than create further harm, further hurt, and further grief. We must […]

In spite of the unavoidable life on life’s terms that we find ourselves in, there is always something to be grateful for if that is your desire. When I was unexpectedly admitted for two full days to the hospital from an allergic reaction that caused facial swelling, I found gratitude for having available medical care, […]

A sponsor is a person walking in victory in a specific area of struggle that is willing to offer support and encouragement through utilizing the tools of a program of recovery. It is strongly suggested that a sponsor be of the same sex and moreover, have working knowledge and experience in the specific recovery program. […]

We have a tendency to incessantly beat ourselves up for past mistakes. When we view ourselves as human beings who all make mistakes, we can then develop compassion for self and eventually for others as well. Alexander Pope is quoted, “To err is human; to forgive, divine.” The usual meaning ascribed to Pope’s version is […]

Many people reprimanded me for my lifestyle and offered solutions, but I chose not to listen. Consequently, it was my tendency to violently push people away, both verbally and physically, in an effort to safeguard my habits. I simply could not hear the truth until the message was delivered in just the right way. Another […]

Prior to recovery, every decision was formulated founded on real or imagined fears: fears of rejection, deficiency, abandonment, God, intimacy, success, failure, death, life, commitment, humiliation … and the list goes on. All my thoughts, actions and ideas stemmed from my perceived notion that I was either not good enough or would not have enough. […]

Recovery is a process. Most of us want what we want and we want it now! We may have surrendered to the reality that change is necessary, but yielding to the patience that is required while transformation is taking place is a daily requirement. We may ask, “Why is it taking so long?” It will […]